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Some people asked why I'd choose the Vision series over the new all maple Export. Below I have created a chart showing the basic differences between the new ECX and the new Vision Series. I am also copying my post from another thread which is extensive but might also solve some confusion about the new products.
Either way you cut it, both kits are excellent, but I think the Vision outshines the ECX in finish options, hardware, and overall value. I'd buy the Vision Series over the ECX basically because you're getting more for your money. To go into more detail please read my evaluation.
There were no real improvements to the Exports this year. All they did was merge the Session series into a "custom" Export line called ECX. You are getting a 6 ply maple shell which I would assume is the same as the old SMX shell, or at least the same quality wood. In order to keep the costs low they used existing lugs and offered four basic (boring) lacquer finishes. Also the ECX is sold as shell-packs only, another way to keep costs low.
The Vision is manufactured in Pearl's new China factory. With the Vision series you get an improved birch/basswood shell that's 6 ply for rack toms and 8 ply for floor toms and bass drums. You also get all new lugs featuring brass inserts (!!!!!), new recessed bass drum claws, and new tom brackets all designed to resemble the Reference Series. Don't forget 2 ply heads, all new 900 series stands and pedals, new badges, molded rubber gaskets (another really nice feature!) and your choice of 4 lacquer OR 5 wrapped finishes. On top of that you also get Pearl's new limited lifetime warranty.
The all maple ECX is a huge advance for the Export name, but the Vision appears to be the nicer of the two kits in terms of fit and finish. I'm sure someone will say that an all maple shell is better. You may be right to some degree, maple is definitely an excellent wood but with the right heads and tuning you can make almost any kit sound wonderful regardless of what wood is used. I also think the ECX finishes are rather plain, but I expect this to change once ECX sales take off.
Once I actually play the ECX and Vision series in person, that's when my final vote will be cast.
Please share your comments or arguments....
Either way you cut it, both kits are excellent, but I think the Vision outshines the ECX in finish options, hardware, and overall value. I'd buy the Vision Series over the ECX basically because you're getting more for your money. To go into more detail please read my evaluation.
There were no real improvements to the Exports this year. All they did was merge the Session series into a "custom" Export line called ECX. You are getting a 6 ply maple shell which I would assume is the same as the old SMX shell, or at least the same quality wood. In order to keep the costs low they used existing lugs and offered four basic (boring) lacquer finishes. Also the ECX is sold as shell-packs only, another way to keep costs low.
The Vision is manufactured in Pearl's new China factory. With the Vision series you get an improved birch/basswood shell that's 6 ply for rack toms and 8 ply for floor toms and bass drums. You also get all new lugs featuring brass inserts (!!!!!), new recessed bass drum claws, and new tom brackets all designed to resemble the Reference Series. Don't forget 2 ply heads, all new 900 series stands and pedals, new badges, molded rubber gaskets (another really nice feature!) and your choice of 4 lacquer OR 5 wrapped finishes. On top of that you also get Pearl's new limited lifetime warranty.
The all maple ECX is a huge advance for the Export name, but the Vision appears to be the nicer of the two kits in terms of fit and finish. I'm sure someone will say that an all maple shell is better. You may be right to some degree, maple is definitely an excellent wood but with the right heads and tuning you can make almost any kit sound wonderful regardless of what wood is used. I also think the ECX finishes are rather plain, but I expect this to change once ECX sales take off.
Once I actually play the ECX and Vision series in person, that's when my final vote will be cast.
Please share your comments or arguments....
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